As we look forward to the 242nd birthday of America, I find myself thinking about this experiment of democracy. I love history, and I read the Constitution regularly (lots of discussion about it, so I think it is good to be aware of what it says). I am in no way an expert on these…

I have friends of many persuasions – religions, politics, races, genders, sexual orientations (probably more)- who have been in my life at different times and in different places. They often disagree with one another on Facebook, and these disagreements can be healthy – or not. There are a couple of people who, if they met…

For years I have been saying that one of the church’s biggest problems is that we are not honest. We – all denominations – allow clergy to do some pretty bad stuff, and all we do is move them or allow them to resign quietly. We are not alone in this – the #MeToo movement…

In a recent Facebook conversation with some very smart people, there was a comment about so-called Christians (like Franklin Graham, to name one) who seem to be behaving in ways that are contrary to the teachings of Jesus. It isn’t that they are thinking differently (I admit to doing that all the time), or that…

I have always considered myself a free-thinker who is open to new ideas, and I appreciate that trait in others. I don’t accept ideas or statements on face value (much to the dismay of those around me, at times) and I like to know why people believe what they do. I – like you –…

Dietrich Bonhoeffer is one of my heroes, and before he died at the hands of the Nazis at the age of 39, we was a prolific author and respected theologian. His best work (at least, according to me) is a book called “The Cost of Discipleship”. There is a much quoted passage that was not…

This past Sunday I was part of a team in charge of a program about 2nd chances. We had speakers who had been incarcerated, as well as people who were immigrants. The stories were so meaningful and inspiring, and yet, so sad. For most of our speakers, they were on their 4th, 5th and beyond…

Two things that came across my screen this morning that have me riled up about Christians who seem to be a bit confused about Jesus. 1 – It seems that a bill making it harder for children to be married has been blocked by Republicans in Kentucky. This bill would have made these marriages possible…

I love this country – it is a place of greatness and plenty. I fly the American flag proudly and believe that kneeling during the National Anthem, while Constitutionally acceptable, is rude. You may disagree with me – I respect your right to free thought and speech. This is how I feel. I am also…

Most of us can agree that the title of this blog – Life is Short – is a truism of major importance. I came to this conclusion at an early age, and have kept it in mind for decades. You never when your end will come – you never know if you will see someone…

What people say

Calvary is a warm embracing open and accepting community of fellow Christians that care deeply about one another and our world.

Art and Louise Grim

From the moment we entered Calvary, we were hooked. The warmth of the rich wooden pews and altar, the reflected beauty and light of the stained glass windows, and the beautiful music filled our hearts with a sense of welcome and comfort. This warmth was matched by the open and heartfelt reception by the congregation. God’s message of love and acceptance that is the cornerstone of this church completed the circle that has become our spiritual and physical haven. We have found a diverse and loving family at Calvary United Church of Christ. Russ & Carol Hummel

Russ and Carol Hummel

Barbara and I have lived in five metro areas in our 57 years of marriage, attending many different churches. Although we were very active in other churches, we always missed Calvary. After some less than satisfactory experiences with churches near our present home, we decided to visit Calvary in 2002, just to test our memories. One visit was more than enough. We instantly realized that we had that rare opportunity to return “home”. We immediately felt that old experience of a welcoming, open, warm congregation, an excellent Pastor and preacher, a great music ministry, a vibrant Christian education program, and a Christian fellowship beyond any other we had experienced.

Barbara sings in the choir, and I have been active in governance of the church and spend a lot of time with other members fixing and improving the physical facility. Although it is a 96 mile round trip, we are there several times each week because our lives are so enriched by the Christian fellowship of Calvary, our knowledge of God and Jesus so enhanced by Pastor Steve’s always challenging messages, and our Faith so much stronger that we just cannot stay away.

John and Barbara Master

When and Where is Worship

640 Centre Ave, Reading, PA 19610,

Phone: (610) 374-2109

Sunday Worship: Acoustic Worship with Holy Communion in the Chapel on Oley Street – 8:00am Multi-Traditional Worship at 9:30AM (Summer) / 10:30AM (After Labor Day through the Week before Memorial Day) in the Sanctuary at the Corner of Oley and Centre Ave